If you're looking for an alternative to raisins or dried cranberries, dried cherries are an excellent choice. Although more tart in flavor than raisins, dried cherries can be used similarly. Try them as a topping for oatmeal, as an addition to trail mix or as an ingredient in cookies or scones. Like raisins or dried cranberries, dried cherries do not have to be refrigerated so they are an excellent snack choice for long hikes or backpacking trips.
Calories, Carbohydrates and Fiber
A 1/3-cup serving of dried cherries contains 160 calories, all of which come from carbohydrates. Dried cherries contain no protein or fat. Each serving of cherries contains 38 g of carbohydrates, which provides 13 percent of the daily value for most adults. The majority of the carbohydrates in each serving of dried cherries come from sugar. There are 30 g of sugar per serving, which come from the natural sugars found in the fruit. Dried cherries also contain 2 g of fiber, which supplies 8 percent of the daily value for adults. Fiber is important because aids in the digestive process.
Vitamin C
One serving of dried cherries provides 35 percent of the daily value of vitamin C. Small amounts of some vitamins, such as vitamin K, are produced by your body. However, this is not the case with vitamin C. Since your body does not manufacture any vitamin C, you must obtain all that you need through your diet. You need vitamin C to form collagen, which is a protein that makes up part of your connective tissue, such as bone and tendon. Vitamin C is also important for proper brain function, as it helps you produce the neurotransmitter norepinephrine, according to the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University. In addition, vitamin C works as an antioxidant to protect your body against free radicals and toxins.
Vitamin A
Dried cherries also contain vitamin A, with one serving providing 15 percent of the daily value. Vitamin A helps you see properly, especially at night and in situations with low light. You also need vitamin A for your immune system to function properly. Vitamin A supports many of the cells, such as skin cells, that protect your body from infection.
Minerals
Dried cherries contain a small amount of iron and calcium. One serving provides 2 percent of the daily value of both of these minerals. Iron is important for red blood cell production and calcium is essential for strong bones and teeth.
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